Leeds United disappointingly crashed out of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday evening after losing to Sheffield Wednesday on penalties, and the game delivered some hard truths for Leeds.
After a very poor performance, the last thing Leeds United need is injuries and gaps being left in the squad.
But that’s what they currently have, with only a few days left of the summer transfer window.
As they prepare to host Newcastle at Elland Road on Saturday, it does call into question how they will fill these gaps. And will new signings help ease the pressure?
Daniel Farke, Leeds manager after Sheffield Wednesday defeat.
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Ao Tanaka’s injury adds to Leeds United’s midfield nightmare
Against Arsenal, Tanaka went off and down the tunnel at 58 minutes. Speaking post-match, via The Yorkshire Evening Post, Farke explained the situation.
He said: “After a tackle in the first half, he had problems with his MCL.”
Since then, Beren Cross revealed on X the extent of the issue, with Tanaka not involved against Sheffield Wednesday during the cup exit on penalties.
Tanaka is expected to be out for several weeks alongside Ethan Ampadu who is already out with the same issue.
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Leeds’ midfield issues continue with the likes of Ilia Gruev and Sean Longstaff: they’re not injured but their performances so far haven’t been convincing.
Gruev played 71 minutes last night and amassed 66 touches, zero touches in the opposition box, three defensive contributions and one clearance.
He also struggled against Arsenal, playing a full 90 minutes and managing only 41 touches and 34 accurate passes.
Sean Longstaff didn’t impress fans in pre-season and his lack of game time last season for Newcastle has led to worries about his form. Longstaff fell down the midfield pecking order at the Magpies.
In short, with injuries mounting and key players struggling for form, Leeds United’s midfield has become a significant and pressing concern.
Sean Longstaff after Leeds United's defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
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Leeds United’s midfield transfer dilemma
Despite Leeds United spending just over £100m in the transfer window, they still have a huge gap in the central attacking midfield.
They need a creative presence, someone who can make something happen against top teams who close them down effectively.
One target who fits this bill is Facundo Buonanotte, with manager Daniel Farke reportedly seeking a hybrid playmaker who can operate as a No. 10 or a winger. Leeds’ interest in Buonanotte dates back over a year ago before he joined Leicester City on loan, and he has now re-emerged as a serious target in recent weeks.
It is clear that Buonanotte is not in Brighton’s plans, and with Brighton preferring a loan deal within England, Leeds should continue to push for his signature.
Compounding this need for attacking options, it seems short-sighted that Largie Ramazani could leave Elland Road for Valencia. A permanent clause is believed to be included in Ramazani’s loan, and while Leeds pushed for a loan fee, Valencia are confident of securing a deal.
Ramazani is keen on the move and his exit is now expected. His potential departure leaves the club with a pressing need for attacking creativity.